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Discover The Hidden Value: Is A 1987 Quarter Worth Your Attention?

butchkaliva December 31, 2024

Is a 1987 quarter worth anything?

Yes, a 1987 quarter is worth more than its face value of 25 cents due to its silver content. The 1987 quarter was the last year that quarters were minted with 90% silver. This means that each 1987 quarter contains 6.25 grams of silver, which is worth approximately $0.50 at today's silver prices.

In addition to their silver content, 1987 quarters are also popular with collectors because they were the first year that the United States Mint produced quarters with a "P" mint mark. The "P" mint mark indicates that the quarter was minted at the Philadelphia Mint.

As a result of their silver content and collector value, 1987 quarters are worth more than their face value. The exact value of a 1987 quarter will depend on its condition and whether or not it has been certified by a professional grading service.

Is a 1987 quarter worth anything?

When it comes to determining the worth of a 1987 quarter, there are several key aspects to consider:

Silver content: 1987 quarters contain 90% silver, making them more valuable than quarters minted after 1964.
Collector value: 1987 was the first year that quarters were minted with a "P" mint mark, making them popular with collectors.
Condition: The condition of a quarter will affect its value. Quarters in mint condition are worth more than those that are worn or damaged.
Grading: Quarters that have been certified by a professional grading service are worth more than ungraded quarters.
Numismatic value: Quarters with errors or other unique characteristics may have additional numismatic value.
Silver price: The price of silver will affect the value of 1987 quarters, as they are primarily valued for their silver content.

By considering these factors, you can determine the approximate value of your 1987 quarter. For example, a 1987 quarter in mint condition that has been certified by a professional grading service could be worth several hundred dollars, while a worn or damaged quarter may only be worth a few dollars.

1. Silver content

The silver content of 1987 quarters is directly related to their value. Quarters minted after 1964 contain a lower percentage of silver, making them less valuable. The higher silver content of 1987 quarters makes them more desirable to collectors and investors, as silver is a precious metal with a relatively stable value.

Silver as a precious metal: Silver is a precious metal that has been used for centuries to create currency, jewelry, and other objects. Silver is relatively rare, and its value is determined by its purity and weight.
Silver content of quarters: Quarters minted before 1965 contained 90% silver. In 1965, the United States Mint began to produce quarters with a clad composition, which is a layer of copper sandwiched between two layers of nickel. Clad quarters contain only a small amount of silver, which is why they are less valuable than pre-1965 quarters.
Value of 1987 quarters: 1987 quarters are the last year that quarters were minted with a 90% silver content. This makes them more valuable than quarters minted after 1964, which have a lower silver content. The value of a 1987 quarter will vary depending on its condition and whether or not it has been certified by a professional grading service.

In conclusion, the silver content of 1987 quarters is a key factor in determining their value. Quarters minted after 1964 contain a lower percentage of silver, making them less valuable. The higher silver content of 1987 quarters makes them more desirable to collectors and investors, as silver is a precious metal with a relatively stable value.

2. Collector value

The collector value of 1987 quarters is directly related to their unique mint mark. The "P" mint mark indicates that the quarter was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, and it is the first year that quarters were minted with this particular mint mark. This makes 1987 quarters popular with collectors, as they are seen as a unique and desirable collectible.

The collector value of 1987 quarters can vary depending on a number of factors, including the condition of the quarter, the year of issue, and the overall rarity of the coin. However, even common 1987 quarters in good condition can be worth several dollars to collectors. Uncirculated 1987 quarters, or quarters that have never been spent, can be worth even more.

The collector value of 1987 quarters is a key factor in determining their overall worth. While the silver content of 1987 quarters is also important, the collector value can add significant value to the coin. This is especially true for rare or unique 1987 quarters, which can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

3. Condition

The condition of a 1987 quarter is a key factor in determining its value. Quarters in mint condition are worth more than those that are worn or damaged because they are more desirable to collectors and investors.

Definition of "mint condition": Mint condition refers to coins that have never been circulated or spent. They are in perfect condition, with no scratches, dents, or other damage.
Why mint condition quarters are more valuable: Mint condition quarters are more valuable because they are rare. Most quarters that are circulated become worn and damaged over time, so mint condition quarters are highly sought after by collectors and investors.
Factors that affect the condition of a quarter: The condition of a quarter can be affected by a number of factors, including how it was stored, how it was handled, and whether or not it was circulated. Quarters that have been stored in a protective case or album are more likely to be in mint condition than quarters that have been loose in a pocket or purse.
How to determine the condition of a quarter: The condition of a quarter can be determined by examining it closely. Look for any scratches, dents, or other damage. You can also weigh the quarter to determine if it is full weight. Mint condition quarters will be full weight, while worn or damaged quarters may be underweight.

By understanding the importance of condition, you can better determine the value of your 1987 quarters. Quarters in mint condition are worth more than worn or damaged quarters, so it is important to take care of your quarters if you want to maximize their value.

4. Grading

The grading of a coin is a process of evaluating its condition and assigning it a numerical grade. This grade is based on a number of factors, including the coin's strike, surface preservation, and overall appearance. Coins that have been certified by a professional grading service have been examined by an expert and assigned a grade based on its condition. This grade provides a guarantee of the coin's authenticity and condition, which can add significant value to the coin.

In the case of 1987 quarters, grading is an important factor in determining their value. Quarters that have been certified by a professional grading service are worth more than ungraded quarters because they have been independently verified to be in good condition. This verification gives collectors and investors confidence that the coin is genuine and has not been damaged or altered in any way.

For example, a 1987 quarter that has been graded MS-65 by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) is worth more than an ungraded 1987 quarter because the NGC has certified that the coin is in mint state condition. This certification gives collectors and investors confidence that the coin is genuine and has not been damaged or altered in any way.

The grading of 1987 quarters is a complex and nuanced process, but it is an important factor in determining their value. Collectors and investors should consider having their 1987 quarters graded by a professional grading service in order to maximize their value.

5. Numismatic value

In addition to their silver content, collector value, and condition, 1987 quarters may also have additional numismatic value if they have errors or other unique characteristics. Numismatic value refers to the value of a coin beyond its face value or bullion value, and it is often determined by its rarity, historical significance, or unique features.

Errors: Errors are mistakes that occur during the minting process, and they can range from minor variations to major defects. Error coins are often highly sought-after by collectors, and they can command a significant premium over their face value. For example, a 1987 quarter with a doubled die error, where the design is doubled on the coin, could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Unusual characteristics: Quarters with unusual characteristics, such as off-center strikes, mint marks in unusual locations, or die cracks, can also have additional numismatic value. These characteristics can make a coin more unique and desirable to collectors, and they can also add to its value.
Historical significance: Quarters that were minted during important historical events or that commemorate special occasions can also have additional numismatic value. For example, a 1987 quarter that was minted to commemorate the bicentennial of the United States Constitution could be worth more than a regular 1987 quarter.
Rarity: The rarity of a coin is a major factor in determining its numismatic value. Coins that are rare are more valuable than coins that are common, and this is especially true for error coins and coins with unusual characteristics.

By understanding the factors that contribute to numismatic value, you can better determine the value of your 1987 quarters. Quarters with errors, unusual characteristics, historical significance, or rarity may be worth more than their face value or bullion value, and they can be a valuable addition to any coin collection.

6. Silver price

The price of silver is a key factor in determining the value of 1987 quarters. This is because 1987 quarters are primarily valued for their silver content. The higher the price of silver, the more valuable 1987 quarters will be. Conversely, the lower the price of silver, the less valuable 1987 quarters will be.

For example, in 1987, the price of silver was around $6 per ounce. This means that a 1987 quarter, which contains 0.1808 ounces of silver, was worth around $1.08 in silver content alone. However, today, the price of silver is around $25 per ounce. This means that a 1987 quarter is now worth around $4.52 in silver content alone.

This increase in the price of silver has had a significant impact on the value of 1987 quarters. In 1987, a 1987 quarter was worth around $0.25. Today, a 1987 quarter is worth around $5.00. This represents a significant increase in value, and it is largely due to the increase in the price of silver.

It is important to note that the price of silver is not the only factor that affects the value of 1987 quarters. Other factors, such as the condition of the coin and its rarity, can also affect its value. However, the price of silver is a major factor, and it is something that collectors and investors should be aware of when determining the value of 1987 quarters.

FAQs about "Is a 1987 Quarter Worth Anything?"

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding the worth of 1987 quarters, providing clear and informative answers to enhance understanding.

Question 1: Are all 1987 quarters worth more than face value?

Answer: Yes, all 1987 quarters are worth more than their face value due to their silver content. Each 1987 quarter contains 0.1808 ounces of silver, which is currently worth around $4.52.

Question 2: What factors affect the value of a 1987 quarter?

Answer: The value of a 1987 quarter is primarily determined by its silver content and condition. Other factors that can influence its value include rarity, errors, and historical significance.

Question 3: Are 1987 quarters with errors more valuable?

Answer: Yes, 1987 quarters with errors can be more valuable than those without errors. Error coins are highly sought after by collectors and can command a significant premium over their face value.

Question 4: How can I determine the condition of my 1987 quarter?

Answer: The condition of a 1987 quarter can be determined by examining its surface for any scratches, dents, or other damage. You can also weigh the quarter to determine if it is full weight. Mint condition quarters will be full weight, while worn or damaged quarters may be underweight.

Question 5: How much is a 1987 quarter worth today?

Answer: The value of a 1987 quarter today depends on its condition, rarity, and the current price of silver. However, most 1987 quarters are worth at least $4.52 due to their silver content.

Summary:Understanding the factors that affect the value of 1987 quarters is crucial for determining their worth. Collectors and investors should consider the silver content, condition, rarity, errors, and historical significance when evaluating these coins.

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Conclusion

The worth of a 1987 quarter extends beyond its face value due to its silver content and other factors. Its 90% silver composition makes it valuable to collectors and investors alike. The condition of the quarter, its rarity, the presence of errors, and historical significance all contribute to its overall worth.

Understanding these factors allows collectors and investors to make informed decisions when evaluating 1987 quarters. The silver content alone makes these quarters worth more than their face value, and their condition and other characteristics can further enhance their worth. As with any collectible, the value of 1987 quarters can fluctuate over time, but their intrinsic value as silver coins ensures their continued significance within the numismatic community.